U.S. patent application number 11/191638 was filed with the patent office on 2005-11-24 for connector assembly for clamping tool and system utilizing same.
Invention is credited to Brass, Robert L., Lewis, Steven W..
Application Number | 20050260893 11/191638 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29740265 |
Filed Date | 2005-11-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050260893 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Brass, Robert L. ; et
al. |
November 24, 2005 |
Connector assembly for clamping tool and system utilizing same
Abstract
A system of tools and connector assemblies can be erected in
numerous arrangements and configurations, in positive, selected
interrelationships, for the mounting and support of a workpiece or
the like. Engagement portions on the tools are clamped by the
clamping blocks comprising a connector assembly; the tools may be
C-clamps, bar-clamps, pipe-clamps, coupling devices, brackets,
standoffs, and like implements.
Inventors: |
Brass, Robert L.;
(Washington, CT) ; Lewis, Steven W.; (Woodbury,
CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
IRA S. DORMAN
330 ROBERTS STREET, SUITE 200
EAST HARTFORD
CT
06108
US
|
Family ID: |
29740265 |
Appl. No.: |
11/191638 |
Filed: |
July 28, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11191638 |
Jul 28, 2005 |
|
|
|
10456357 |
Jun 5, 2003 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
439/636 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B25B 5/101 20130101;
B25B 5/142 20130101; B25B 5/102 20130101; B25B 5/006 20130101; B25B
5/003 20130101; B25B 5/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
439/636 |
International
Class: |
H01R 024/00 |
Claims
1-38. (canceled)
39. A connector assembly for use with a clamping tool in a clamp
system, said connector assembly including a pair of clamping blocks
and means for coupling said blocks in mutually confronting
operative relationship and for urging them toward one another, one
of said blocks being of generally V-shaped cross section and
comprised of two portions disposed at an angle of about 30.degree.
to 150.degree. to one another and defining a space therebetween,
and the other of said pair of clamping blocks having a mating,
generally V-shaped cross section generally complementary to that of
said one block and being disposed within said space defined
thereby, whereby said clamping blocks of said connector assembly
can be tightened upon an engagement portion of a clamping tool
inserted therebetween, to securely mount such a clamping tool in
position relative to said connector assembly.
40-45. (canceled)
46. The connector assembly of claim 55 wherein said blocks are of
substantially the same size and are of generally planar,
rectangular construction.
47. (canceled)
48. The connector assembly of claim 39 wherein said angle is
90.degree..
49. The connector assembly of claim 52 wherein said engagement
formations are on said angularly disposed portions of said one
block, and wherein the inner faces of the portion of said other
block, confronting said two portions of said one block, are
substantially flat.
50. The connector assembly of claim 39 wherein said means for
coupling includes a manually operable member accessible from
outwardly of said one clamping block for drawing said other
clamping block toward said one clamping block.
51. The connector assembly of claim 39 wherein said clamping blocks
have key means thereon for cooperatively orienting said clamping
blocks relative to one another.
52. The connector assembly of claim 39 wherein the inner faces of
at least one of said clamping blocks are formed with at least one
engagement formation proximate laterally opposite edges
thereof.
53. A tool and connector system comprising: at least one clamping
tool having an engagement portion; and said connector assembly of
claim 39, said clamping blocks of said connector assembly being
tightened upon said engagement portion of said at least one
clamping tool, inserted therebetween under one of said portions of
said one block, for so mounting said at least one clamping
tool.
54. The system of claim 53 further comprising a second said
clamping tool, said engagement portion of said second clamping tool
being inserted between said clamping blocks, under the other of
said portions of said one block, for so mounting said second
clamping tool disposed at said angle to said one clamping tool.
55. A connector assembly for use with a clamping tool in a clamp
system, said connector assembly including a pair of clamping blocks
and means for coupling said blocks in mutually confronting
operative relationship and for urging them toward one another, said
means for coupling comprising a fastener disposed on a central axis
and providing the only means for joining said blocks to one
another; means for constraining said clamping blocks to a single
operative relative orientation; said blocks having inner faces
formed with a first set of engagement formations proximate a first
outer edge of said connector assembly and dimensioned and
configured for cooperatively seating a first structure of a
clamping tool in said operative relative orientation, and formed
with a second set of engagement formations proximate a second outer
edge of said connector assembly, opposite to said first outer edge
of said connector assembly, and dimensioned and configured for
cooperatively seating a second structure of a clamping tool in said
operative relative orientation, the elements of said first set of
engagement formations being non-functional with the elements of
said second set of engagement formations; whereby said clamping
blocks of said connector assembly can be tightened upon an
engagement portion of a clamping tool inserted therebetween, with a
structure of the engagement portion seated in one of said
engagement formations, to securely mount such a clamping tool in
position relative to said connector assembly.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/391,358, bearing the same title and filed Jun.
25, 2002.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Multiple-effect clamping arrangements incorporating various
forms of clamps, and providing lateral, overlying, and underlying
support for workpieces, are old and well known in the art. Such
arrangements are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 728,450,
789,405, 812,699, 1,009,609, 1,309,900, 1,352,647, 1,375,686,
1,408,301, 1,410,184, 1,497,862, 2,366,350, 2,606,483, 2,642,905,
3,033,559, 4,002,328, 4,247,090, 4,500,077, 4,592,541, 4,607,829,
4,962,918, 4,984,775, 5,058,870, 5,192,060, 5,405,124, and
5,950,998. Of particular note are Reeder U.S. Pat. No. 1,319,900
and Mayer et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,405,124, wherein pairs of C-clamps
are coupled to function cooperatively.
[0003] Connectors having parts that are joined together or urged
into clamping engagement by use of bolts are disclosed in U.S. Pat.
Nos. 4,273,465, 4,597,690, 5,704,816 and 5,794,897. A unitary
supporting member for a wood clamp is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
4,662,618, and U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,241,906 and 6,062,552 are directed
to novel vises.
[0004] Despite the well-developed state of the art indicated by the
foregoing, a need remains for a system that affords a high degree
of versatility and variation in its applications, and is highly
effective in securing components to one another in positive,
selected positions and relationships, and is incomplex and
relatively inexpensive to manufacture.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Accordingly, it is a broad object of the present invention
to provide a versatile and effective system in which tools of
various kinds can be mounted and interengaged in positive, selected
positions and relationships, and to provide tools and connector
assemblies comprising such a systems.
[0006] Other objects of the invention are to provide such a system
and components which are of relatively incomplex design and
construction, and of relatively facile and inexpensive
manufacture.
[0007] It has now been found that certain of the foregoing and
related objects of the invention are attained by the provision of a
system broadly comprised of at least one tool and one connector
assembly. The tool has a generally planar engagement portion, with
opposite side surfaces and a generally laterally extending outer
edge. The connector assembly includes a pair of clamping blocks,
and means for coupling the blocks in mutually confronting operative
relationship and for urging them toward one another. The assembly
is constructed for receiving the engagement portion of the tool
between the blocks, and for gripping it with the inner surface of
each block bearing upon the confronting side surface of the
engagement portion, each inner surface, together with the
confronting side surface, thus providing a contact surface pair.
First orientation constraint means, comprised of a recess formation
and protruding structure seated therein, is provided on the
confronting surfaces comprising at least one of the contact surface
pairs, and constrains the tool and connector assembly against
relative angular movement, thereby positively securely mounting the
tool in a selected orientation relative to the connector
assembly.
[0008] In more specific embodiments of the invention the tool is a
clamping tool and the engagement portion thereof has, on at least
one of two opposite side surfaces, at least two mutually parallel
and transversely spaced, laterally extending raised rib structures
(typically, of half-round or triangular cross section). An inner
face of one of the blocks of the assembly is formed with a first
set of at least two transversely spaced, laterally extending recess
formations proximate a first outer edge of the assembly, and is
dimensioned and configured for seating the rib structures on the
engagement portion of the clamping tool. The blocks of the
connector assembly can be tightened upon the engagement portion of
the tool, with the rib structures seated in the recess formations,
to thereby securely mount the tool in a selected position.
[0009] The engagement portion of the clamping tool will preferably
have raised rib structures on the other of its opposite side
surfaces as well, and generally such rib structures will align with
one another, through the thickness of the engagement portion. Rib
structures may extend along the inner and outer edges of an
engagement portion, and/or they may be disposed intermediate the
edges. Although the rib structures and recess formations may
advantageously be substantially free from discontinuity along their
lengths, with a recess formation extending fully across the inner
faces of the connector blocks, gaps or discontinuities may be
provided so as to accommodate, for example, a bump in the middle of
a casting.
[0010] One specific clamping tool suitable for use in the instant
system is a C-clamp comprised of two cooperating jaw portions
spaced along the length of a back portion, with the engagement
portion comprising the back and/or one or both of the jaw portions.
Other suitable clamping tools comprise bar clamps and pipe clamps
in which the engagement portion may take the form of a flange on at
least one of the jaws. The clamping tool may also be a one-piece
coupling device comprised of a head portion integrally formed with
an engagement portion, the head portion being constructed for
snap-fit clamping engagement of a separate member mounted
thereon.
[0011] The inner face of one of the connector assembly blocks will
desirably have laterally extending raised rib structure thereon,
which aligns intermediate recess formations in the other block when
the blocks are assembled in their operative relationship. At least
a second set of recess formations will advantageously be provided
proximate a second outer edge of the connector assembly, lying
opposite and/or adjacent to the first outer edge, such a connector
assembly having particular utility in instances in which the system
includes (as will usually be the case) a second tool having an
engagement portion thereon. In addition, the inner face of each of
the clamping blocks will advantageously be formed with a channel
extending fully thereacross, proximate an outer edge of the
assembly, the channels being aligned with one another so as to
cooperatively form a passage. The connector assembly will normally
include means for constraining the blocks to their operative
relative orientation, as well as means for biasing the blocks away
from one another.
[0012] In one specific embodiment of the invention the blocks of
the connector assembly are of substantially the same size and are
of generally planar, square (or other rectangular form)
construction, providing a straight-line or in-line assembly. In
another embodiment the blocks are of complementary, generally
V-shaped, mating cross section, one block being comprised of two
portions angled at 30.degree. to 150.degree. (usually 90.degree.)
to one another. Because of an inherent ability to compensate for
structural variations and manufacturing tolerances, the faces of
the mating block of such an angle connector assembly may
advantageously be flat and unconfigured (i.e., devoid of rib
structures or recess formations).
[0013] Other objects of the invention are attained by the provision
of a tool, as described herein. And still further objects are
attained by the provision of a coupling assembly, also as herein
described.
[0014] Thus, the present system includes a variety of connector
assemblies and "tools," which term is intended broadly to include
adjustable and fixed clamps, connector and standoff devices,
mounting supports, and like implements, and which tools can readily
be assembled with one another in various combinations and in
positive, selected relationships, for a variety of purposes. A
connector assembly will usually be used to grip and join two tools,
such as a C-clamp and a bar clamp, two C-clamps, a clamp and a
coupling device or mounting bracket, etc. A single raised rib
structure may be provided on either or both sides of an engagement
portion; structures that are functionally equivalent to laterally
extending ribs and recesses can be employed, the positions of ribs
and recesses on a on tool and on connector blocks can be reversed,
and other modifications are contemplated. The connector assembly
may employ two or three sets of rib structures and recess
formations along two or three margins, disposed outwardly of a
central fastening member to provide optimal versatility of
applications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is an elevational view of a system embodying the
invention, showing a C-clamp connected to a bar clamp, using an
in-line connector assembly;
[0016] FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the system of FIG. 1,
taken along line 2-2 thereof and drawn to an enlarged scale;
[0017] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective (isometric) view of the
connector assembly utilized in the system of FIG. 1, drawn to an
enlarged scale;
[0018] FIG. 4 is an end elevational view of the connector
assembly;
[0019] FIG. 5 is an elevational, adjacent end view of the connector
assembly;
[0020] FIG. 6 is an elevational view of the inner surface of the
exterior block of the connector assembly, taken along line 6-6 of
FIG. 5;
[0021] FIG. 7 is an end elevational view of the exterior block of
the connector assembly, partially broken away;
[0022] FIG. 8 is an adjacent end elevational view of the exterior
block, viewed on line 8-8 of FIG. 6;
[0023] FIG. 9 is an elevational view of the outer surface of the
exterior block of the assembly, viewed on line 9-9 of FIG. 7;
[0024] FIG. 10 is an elevational view of the inner surface of the
exterior block of the assembly, viewed on line 10-10 of FIG. 5;
[0025] FIG. 11 is an end elevational view of the interior block of
the connector assembly;
[0026] FIG. 12 is an elevational view of the outer surface of the
interior block, viewed on line 12-12 of FIG. 11;
[0027] FIG. 13 is a sectional view of the interior block, taken
along line 13-13 of FIG. 10;
[0028] FIG. 14 is an elevational view of another system embodying
the invention and comprised of a C-clamp connected to a pipe by an
in-line connector assembly and a coupling device;
[0029] FIG. 15 is a fragmentary elevational view of the system of
FIG. 14, viewed on line 15-15 therein;
[0030] FIG. 16 is a side elevational view of the coupling device
utilized in the system of FIGS. 14 and 15, drawn to an enlarged
scale;
[0031] FIGS. 17 and 18 are end and bottom views of the coupling
device;
[0032] FIGS. 19, 20 and 21 are similar to FIGS. 16, 17 and 18 but
show a modified form of coupling device in which the engagement
portion is rotated 90.degree. to lie perpendicular to the plane of
the head portion;
[0033] FIG. 22 is an elevational view of another system embodying
the invention, mounted on a work bench and comprised of an in-line
connector assembly, a C-clamp, a bar clamp, and a coupling
device;
[0034] FIG. 23 is a fragmentary view of the system of FIG. 22,
taken along line 23-23 therein;
[0035] FIG. 24 is an end elevational view of the coupling device
utilized in the system of FIGS. 22 and 23, drawn to an enlarged
scale;
[0036] FIGS. 25 and 26 are front and bottom views of the coupling
device of FIG. 24, taken on lines 25-25 and 26-26, respectively,
therein;
[0037] FIGS. 27, 28 and 29 are, respectively, elevational, front,
and bottom views of a modified from of coupling device for a bar
clamp, FIGS. 28 and 29 being taken on lines 28-28 and 29-29 of FIG.
27, respectively;
[0038] FIG. 30 is an elevational view showing still another system
embodying the present invention, comprised of a C-clamp, a
straight-line connector assembly, a bar clamp and a coupling
device;
[0039] FIGS. 31, 32 and 33 are, respectively, plan, side, and
bottom views of the coupling device used in the system of FIG. 30,
the side view depicting the device in partial section;
[0040] FIG. 34 is an elevation view of a further system embodying
the invention, comprised of an in-line connector assembly, a second
form of coupling device, and a bar clamp;
[0041] FIGS. 35 and 36 are, respectively, front elevational and
sectional views the device utilized in the system of FIG. 34, the
sectional view being taken along line 36-36 of FIG. 35;
[0042] FIG. 37 is an elevational view of a still further system
embodying the invention, comprised of two C-clamps, associated
in-line connector assemblies, and a pipe clamp;
[0043] FIGS. 38 and 39, and FIGS. 40 and 41, are, respectively,
side and end elevational views of the fixed jaw component and the
jaw assembly of the pipe clamp utilized in the system of FIG.
37.
[0044] FIG. 42 is an elevational view of a system embodying the
present invention, comprised of a pair of C-clamps held at a right
angle by an angle, or miter, connector assembly;
[0045] FIG. 43 is an elevational view of the system of FIG. 42,
viewed on line 43-43 therein;
[0046] FIGS. 44, 45, 46 and 47 are, respectively, end, front, side
and rear views of the exterior block constituting the angle
connector assembly utilized in the system of FIG. 42, FIGS. 45, 46
and 47 being taken, respectively, on line 45-45 in FIG. 44, line
46-46 in FIG. 45 and line 47-47 in FIG. 46;
[0047] FIGS. 48, 49, 50 and 51 are corresponding views of the
interior block comprising the angle connector of FIGS. 42 and 43,
FIGS. 49, 50 and 51 being taken, respectively, on line 49-49 in
FIG. 48, line 50-50 in FIG. 49 and line 51-51 in FIG. 50;
[0048] FIG. 52 is a side elevational view of a second form of bar
clamp embodying the present invention;
[0049] FIG. 53 is an end view of the bar clamp of FIG. 52, viewed
on line 53-53 therein;
[0050] FIG. 54 is a side elevational view of another form of
C-clamp embodying the present invention;
[0051] FIG. 55 is a sectional view of the C-clamp of FIG. 54, taken
along line 55-55 thereof;
[0052] FIG. 56 is an elevational view of an in-line connector
assembly embodying the present invention and suitable for use to
grip the engagement portion of the C-clamp depicted in FIGS. 54 and
55;
[0053] FIG. 57 is a perspective view of a bar clamp embodying the
invention;
[0054] FIG. 58 is a side elevational view of the bar clamp;
[0055] FIGS. 59 and 60 are plan and bottom views of the bar
clamp;
[0056] FIGS. 61 and 62 are front and rear views of the bar
clamp;
[0057] FIG. 63 is an exploded perspective view of the bar
clamp;
[0058] FIG. 64 is a sectional view of the bar clamp taken along
line 64-64 in FIG. 59; and
[0059] FIG. 65 is a second sectional view showing the adjustable
jaw of the bar clamp moved to position in engagement with a
workpiece.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED AND ILLUSTRATED
EMBODIMENTS
[0060] Turning initially to FIGS. 1 and 2 of the drawings, therein
illustrated is a system embodying the present invention and
consisting of a C-clamp and a bar clamp, generally designated
respectively by numerals 10 and 12, interengaged by an in-line
connector assembly. While having unique features, the C-clamp 10 is
of basically conventional construction and consists of a C-shaped
frame 14 and a clamping screw subassembly 15; the screw subassembly
15 and the upper jaw fasten the C-clamp to a bench B. The frame 14
has peripheral flanges or fillets 16, 18 extending respectively
about its interior and exterior margins, and intermediate rib
elements 20, 22 extend between the fillets 16, 18 on the back and
upper jaw portions, respectively; reinforcing boss elements 23, 24
are provided at the junctures of the back and jaw portions. It will
be appreciated that the opposite side of the frame has identical
features, arranged in mirror-image relationship.
[0061] The bar clamp 12 consists of a rectilinear bar 28, to one
end of which is attached a fixed jaw 30. A cooperating jaw 32 is
slidably mounted on the bar 28 and is tightened against a workpiece
W by turning the handle 34, to which a force-generating screw is
attached.
[0062] As is best seen in FIG. 2, and with additional reference now
to FIGS. 3-13, the connector assembly used to interengage the
clamps 10 and 12 consists of square, generally planar interior and
exterior blocks, generally designated respectively by the numerals
36 and 38. A square-headed bolt 40 extends through passages 41 and
43 in the blocks 38 and 36, and through an aligned passage 39 in an
operating handle, generally designated by the numeral 44. The head
49 of the bolt 40 is engaged in a square recess 47 in the block 38,
and a square nut 42, threaded on the end of the bolt 40, is seated
in a corresponding recess 43 formed in the handle 44. As will be
appreciated, rotation of the handle 44 advances the nut 42 on the
bolt 40, thereby urging the blocks 36, 38 together against the
biasing force of a coil spring 48, which is disposed within an
enlarged-chamber section (unnumbered) of the passage 41. A small
lug 45 projects from the inner face of the exterior block 38 into a
recess 46 formed in confronting face of the interior block 36,
thereby constraining the assembled blocks to the proper relative
relationship.
[0063] The exterior block 38 has formed on its inner surface a pair
of parallel rib structures 50, as well as pyramidal corner bosses
54 and a short rib element 52 therebetween (which together
constitute raised rib structure). The inner surface of the interior
block 36 is formed with a rectilinear groove or recess formation 58
along each of its opposite lateral margins, and with parallel
rectilinear grooves 59 spaced inwardly therefrom; a similar pair of
parallel rectilinear grooves 60, 61 extend laterally along the
adjacent margin. Each of the blocks 36, 38 also has a rectilinear
channel 56 extending thereacross, which is wide and deep relative
to the recess formations.
[0064] As seen in FIG. 2, the bar 28 of the bar clamp is seated in
the channels 56 of the two blocks, which cooperatively define a
passage across the connector assembly. The intermediate rib
structure 20 on the back portion of the C-clamp 10 is seated in the
recess formation 60 adjacent the opposite margin of the interior
block 36, with the edge of the exterior marginal flange 18, on one
side of the clamp, seated in the inwardly adjacent recess formation
60'. The short rib element 52, and the pyramidal bosses 54, bear
upon the opposite side of the flame 14, in the area between the rib
element 20 and the flange 18, to rigidly secure the engaged portion
of the C-clamp in a fixed position when the blocks 36, 38 are
tightened thereupon (by rotation of the handle 44). As will be
appreciated, in smaller clamps the peripheral fillets 16 and 18 may
desirably provide rib structures constituting the engagement
portion to which the connector assembly is attached.
[0065] The system depicted in FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 is similar to
that shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, with the exception that one of the
tools employed is a pipe coupling device, generally designated by
the numeral 62, rather than the bar clamp employed therein, and the
rib and recess locations are reversed on the connector blocks. In
the configuration depicted, moreover, the connector assembly is
attached to the upper jaw of the C-clamp rather than the back
portion, engaging the rib formation 22 thereon (together with the
exterior flange portion 18).
[0066] The pipe coupling device 62 is integrally formed, as a
single piece, from a suitable synthetic resinous material (e.g.,
polypropylene), and includes a head portion 64 defining a generally
C-shaped opening 66, an engagement portion 68, and a support
portion 70. As can be seen, a pipe P is secured in the opening 66
of the head portion 64, it being appreciated that the material of
fabrication is sufficiently resiliently deflectable to permit
passage through the relatively narrow entrance opening, for
snap-fit seating.
[0067] The engagement portion of the device 62 is formed with a
pair of parallel rib elements 72, 72' extending laterally along
each side, the corresponding side elements (i.e., 72, 72 and 72',
72') being mutually aligned through the thickness of the portion 68
(as best seen in FIG. 17). As will be appreciated, the connector
assembly is secured upon the engagement portion 68 with the rib
elements 72, 72' on one side seated in the recess formations 60,
60' on the exterior block 38' and with the projecting elements 52,
54 on the interior block 36' cooperating therewith in the manner
hereinabove described.
[0068] FIGS. 19 through 21 illustrate a slightly modified form of
pipe coupling device, generally designated by the numeral 74, in
which the engagement portion is rotated 90.degree. so as to lie
perpendicular to the plane of the head portion 76. This of course
enables the pipe P to be mounted in the plane of the C-clamp rather
than normal thereto. Although not illustrated, it will of course be
appreciated that the dimensions of the head portion of the pipe
clamp may vary so as to accommodate pipes of various sizes.
[0069] The platform 70 of the snap-on device can be utilized for
various purposes, especially for providing underlying support for a
workpiece. This function has particular application in instances in
which the pipe P is a component of a pipe clamp, as described below
in reference to FIGS. 37 through 41. The platform 70 would prevent
contact with the pipe, and thereby minimize marring of the
workpiece, or other damage. On the other hand, such coupling
devices can be used without any connector assembly, positioned so
that its engagement portion merely rests upon an underlying
surface, thus functioning as a standoff to support a span of the
bar or pipe of an elongate clamping mechanism.
[0070] A modified form of such a snap-on device is utilized for
coupling a C-clamp and a bar clamp in the system depicted in FIGS.
22 and 23. The C-clamp and the bar clamp have the features
hereinabove discussed (albeit additional features of the bar clamp
are described below), as has the connector assembly. In this
system, however, the connector assembly is utilized to interengage
the C-clamp and the coupling device, generally designated by the
numeral 78, for gripping the bar 28 to thereby attach the bar clamp
to the work bench B in vertical orientation.
[0071] As is best seen with additional reference to FIGS. 24
through 26, the bar coupling device 78 has an engagement portion 68
which is substantially the same as that utilized of the pipe
coupling devices shown in FIGS. 14-21, but the head portion 80 and
the passage 82 therethrough are of course specifically dimensioned
and configured for snap-fit engagement of the bar 28. Here again,
the device may be constructed with its engagement portion 68
rotated 90.degree. relative to the head portion, as illustrated in
FIGS. 27 through 29, wherein the coupling device is generally
designated by the numeral 84 and is comprised of a head portion 86
and an engagement portion 68.
[0072] FIG. 30 depicts another system for securing a bar clamp,
supported upon a bench B, utilizing a C-clamp and the straight-line
connector assembly previously described. An engagement portion
provided on one of the jaws of the bar clamp is gripped on one side
of the connector, and the engagement portion of a coupling bracket
(offset accessory), generally designated by the numeral 100, is
gripped on the transversely opposite side. Both of the jaw
components 30, 32 of the bar clamp are formed with engagement
portions 88 and 90, respectively, and each engagement portion has a
rectilinear rib element 92, 94 extending laterally along its outer
margin and a parallel rib element 96, 98 spaced inwardly thereof.
The engagement portion 88 is gripped by the connector assembly in
the manner and relationship previously described with respect to
other embodiments of the invention.
[0073] The coupling bracket 100 is most fully illustrated in FIG.
31 through 33, and consists of an engagement portion 102 having
transversely extending rib element 103 and 105 on both opposite
sides (and mutually aligned), a circular head portion 104, and an
offsetting shoulder portion 106. The head portion 104 is formed
with a circular recess 108 to receive the contact element on the
outer end of the C-clamp jaw, as well as a small central hole
adapted to receive a screw for fastening the bracket directly to a
support surface. Although the head portion is depicted as having an
upwardly extending recess 112, in many instances a flat bottom
surface will be preferred.
[0074] A different form of coupling bracket is employed in the
system of FIG. 34, and is more fully illustrated in FIGS. 35 and
36. In this instance the bracket, generally designated by the
numeral 1.14, consists of a mounting panel 116 and a perpendicular
engagement portion 118. As depicted in FIG. 34, the engagement
portion 118 is gripped by the connector assembly, and the panel 116
is secured to a vertical support S, two holes 120 being formed
therethrough to receive mounting bolts 126. Here again, the
engagement portion 118 is formed on its opposite sides with
laterally extending raised rib structures 122 along a forward edge,
and parallel rib structures 124 spaced inwardly therefrom.
[0075] FIGS. 37 through 41 illustrated a pipe clamp, and components
thereof, supported above a bench B by a pair of C-clamps and
associated connector assemblies. The pipe clamp consists of a fixed
jaw component, generally designated by the numeral 128, a movable
jaw assembly generally designated by the numeral 130, and a pipe P,
the fixed jaw 128, the fixed component 132, and the movable jaw 134
being formed with circular openings to receive the pipe. As will be
appreciated, clamping of a workpiece W is effected by rotation of
the screw assembly 136 for advance and retraction of the movable
jaw component 134 relative to the stationary component 132.
[0076] Each of the fixed components 128 and 132 is formed with an
engagement portion comprised of a web element 138 and a foot
element 140, affording a generally T-shaped cross section to the
engagement portion. Mounting is effected by engaging the foot
elements 140 in the through passage of the connector assembly,
defined by the channels 56 (used to receive the bar 28 of the bar
clamp, as shown in FIG. 2). Alternatively, the pipe clamp may be
supported with the foot elements 140 resting directly upon an
underlying surface, in which case one or more of the pipe coupling
devices hereinabove described may be advantageously be applied
along the length of the pipe P to serve as a standoff and provide
additional support (it being appreciated that the standoffs are
dimensioned to cooperate with the pipe components in such
manner).
[0077] Turning now to FIGS. 42 and 43, a system embodying the
invention, and serving to mount a pair of workpieces W in a
right-angular relationship to one another, is depicted. The system
consists of a pair of C-clamps 10 joined by a miter connector
assembly embodying the invention. The connector assembly consists
of an exterior block, an interior block, and a handle, generally
designated by the numerals 142, 144, and 146, respectively,
assembled in a manner comparable to the components of the
straight-line connector assembly hereinabove described. More
specifically, the head of a square-headed bolt 147 is engaged in
the square recess 148 formed into the outer surface of the block
142, with the shank of the bolt extending through passages 150 and
152 in the exterior block 142 and interior block 144, and then
through a passage (not shown) in the handle 146 to threadably
engage a nut 154 seated in the square recess 146. A coil spring
(also not shown) is operatively interposed between the blocks 142,
144 to urge them apart.
[0078] As best seen in FIGS. 44 through 47, the exterior block 142
comprises a body 158 of generally V-shaped cross section, with a
pair of laterally aligned rectangular lugs 160 projecting from the
apex. The surfaces 170, defining the sides of the body 158, are
disposed at an angle of 270.degree. to one another; as can be seen,
they are flat and unconfigured.
[0079] The interior block 144 consists of panels or wings 162
disposed at a 90.degree. angle to one another and affording a
generally V-shaped cross section to the component (because of the
thickened central portion 164 at the intersection of the panels
162, however, the block 144 might be characterized as having
W-shaped cross section). A pair of parallel recess formations 167,
168 extend laterally across the face 169 of each panel portion 162,
and two aligned sockets 172 extend into the central portion 164 for
receipt (in key-like fashion) of the lugs 160 on the exterior
component 142.
[0080] As is best seen in FIG. 42, the engagement portions of the
C-clamps 10 are received in the spaces formed by the confronting
surfaces 169, 170 of the interior and exterior blocks 144, 142 of
the angle connector assembly. The edges of the fillets 18 and the
rib elements 20 are seated in the recess formations 168 and 167 of
the interior block, and of course the surfaces 170 of the exterior
block bear upon the opposite sides of the engagement portions. The
workpieces W are in turn secured by the C-clamps in right-angular
relationship, as shown. It will be appreciated that a miter
connector assembly embodying the invention can be constructed in
like manner to dispose members at virtually any relative angle,
albeit for practical reasons angles in the range 30.degree. to
150.degree. will be typical.
[0081] FIGS. 52 and 53 depict an alternative form of bar clamp 12
embodying the invention, wherein the engagement portions of the
jaws 30', 32' are of T-shaped cross section rather than having the
pattern of raised rib structures depicted in FIGS. 22 and 23. This
construction is similar to that which is utilized for the
components of the pipe clamp through 56 described in reference to
FIGS. 37 through 41, and serves similar purposes; i.e., the foot
element 140 of each engagement portion is engaged in a through
passage defined by the channels 56.
[0082] FIGS. 54 through 56 depict an alternative arrangement of
projecting and seating elements suitable for use in the tools and
connector assemblies of the invention. The engagement portion of
the C-clamp, shown in FIGS. 54 and 55 and generally designated by
the numeral 10', has a peripheral flange or fillet 18 extending
thereabout but is formed with elongate recess formations 180 on its
opposite sides, rather than having upstanding rib structures. The
exterior and interior blocks, generally designated respectively by
the numerals 173 and 174, both have raised rib structures 176
extending laterally along a margin of the connector assembly,
together with recess formations 178 which extend therealong in
parallel relationship. As will be self evident, the edges of the
clamp flange 18 seat in the recess formations 178 on the
confronting faces of blocks 172 and 174, while the projecting rib
structures 176 of the blocks seat in the recess formations 180.
[0083] Turning now to FIGS. 57-65 of the drawings, therein
illustrated in detail is a bar clamp embodying the invention. The
clamp consists of a fixed jaw and a movable jaw, generally
designated by the numerals 182 and 184 respectively, the jaw 182
being affixed to the end of the bar 28, which is slidably received
in the passage 188 of the movable jaw housing. The jaws have
flanges 181 and 183 bearing raised rib structures and providing
engagement portions, as previously described, and protective
plastic sleeves 186 are mounted on the jaws over their confronting
contact surfaces.
[0084] A clamping arm, generally designated by the numeral 190, is
received in the space 192 defined between the walls 194 of the
housing of which the movable jaw 184 is comprised. The arm 190 has
a threaded aperture 196 at its upper end, to receive the clamping
screw 198, and a contact disc 200 is rotatably mounted on the stud
201 that projects from the tip of the screw 198. An oblong passage
202 extends through the lower end of the arm 190, and a hooked nose
portion 204 projects forwardly therefrom between the aperture 196
and the passage 202. An oblong coil spring 206 is slidably mounted
between the arm 190 and the back wall 208 of the jaw housing.
[0085] In operation, the movable jaw of the bar clamp is moved
forwardly on the bar 28 until it contacts (or substantially
contacts) the workpiece W. When used in vertical orientation, the
movable jaw can be permitted to simply slide into contact with the
workpiece, under the force of gravity, then requiring only limited
rotation of the handle to effect clamping. The nose portion 204 is
positioned to contact the bar 28 when the arm 190 is canted
forwardly, thereby preventing engagement by the surface defining
the passage 202 and hence ensuring that such free descent
occurs.
[0086] Conversely, the coil spring 206 (acting against the wall
208) exerts a force.about.upon the lower portion of the arm 190,
canting it rearwardly so as to cause the surface defining the upper
part of the passage 202 to engage and bind upon the confronting
edge of the bar 28. This presents the arm from moving backwardly
along the bar (unless the biasing force is relieved), and ensures
that the movable jaw will advance against the work to provide that
clamping force desired.
[0087] As will be appreciated, the system of the invention enables
support of various forms of clamps and, in turn, workpieces, in a
wide variety of combinations and configurations for a multitude of
applications. In many instances a C-clamp will be employed either
to grip a workpiece directly (e.g., frame pieces in a miter
relationship) or by engagement of a second clamp (e.g., another
C-clamp, a bar clamp, a pipe clamp) to hold the secondary clamp in
position for mounting a workipiece. A standoff device may be
clamped in position by a connector assembly or, as mentioned above,
it may be used simply to provide support for the bar or pipe of a
bar clamp or pipe clamp, and/or for a workpiece, and the brackets
described may be fastened directly to a support surface or secured
temporarily by a C-clamp. As will be appreciated, the systems of
the invention may serve many purposes including, for example, use
as a vise for holding workpieces in position, use as a
multiple-effect clamping arrangement, use as a mount for a camera
or the like, etc., and numerous additional applications will
undoubtedly occur to those skilled in the art.
[0088] Thus, it can be seen that the present invention provides a
system in which tools of various kinds can be mounted and
interengaged in positive, selected positions and relationships, as
well as providing novel tools and connector assemblies comprising
such a system. The system and components are of relatively
incomplex design and construction, and of relatively facile and
inexpensive manufacture.
* * * * *